Rome and Utica will celebrate Italian Heritage Month in October with special flag raising ceremonies and other commemorative activities beginning Monday, Oct. 4. The raising of the Italian flag at Rome City Hall on North Washington Street will be held at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4. The Mayoral Proclamation presentation will be by Mayor Jacqueline M. Izzo.

A special wreath laying ceremony will follow at 9:15 a.m. at St. John’s Cemetery on East Dominick Street, remembering and honoring Luigi and Joseph Bottini, and Rocco Gualtieri. A brief historical presentation will be given by Joseph Bottini, native Roman and Oneida County historian. A reception will follow the wreath laying ceremony at the Toccolana Club, 1412 E. Dominick St.